How a US Government Shutdown Risks Expanding the Digital Divide

As a government shutdown looms over the nation, millions of Americans risk losing internet access. Americans have come to rely on the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) for a $30/month broadband subsidy to stay connected to their communities. Many will be forced to go without, from families who receive Medicaid and SNAP benefits to veterans and Pell Grant recipients. As costs for everything from housing to healthcare continue skyrocketing, families who struggle to make ends meet will have to choose between putting food on the table and having essential broadband access. Congress can easily resolve this by simply funding the program. While the program has bipartisan support, the ACP hangs in the balance because the potential government shutdown is delaying funding progress. If Congress allows the ACP to end, Americans are at risk of losing affordable access to the internet, harming low-income communities, Tribal communities, and communities of color. If Congress fails to act, vulnerable communities across the nation will literally pay the consequences. These communities often suffer from dilapidated broadband infrastructure and unreliable connectivity, and many residents can’t afford the service that is offered in these areas. 

[Cedric Watkins is the Government Affairs Policy Advocate at Public Knowledge.]